Error code P0021 on Nissan Murano Z50: causes, diagnosis and repair

Error code P0021 on Nissan Murano Z50 (2009–2014) is one of the most common problems associated with Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This code indicates a malfunction in the control circuit intake camshaft (bank 2). Owners often encounter it after 100–150 thousand kilometers, when wear of parts or oil contamination begin to affect the operation of the mechanism.

Unlike critical errors such as P0300 (misfires), P0021 does not always lead to an immediate engine stop, but it cannot be ignored. Driving for a long time with this malfunction may cause accelerated timing chain wear, increased fuel consumption and even damage to the catalyst. In this article, we will look at what exactly the error means, how to diagnose it and what steps to take for repair - from simply cleaning the VVT ​​valve to replacing the phase regulator.

What does error code P0021 mean on Nissan Murano Z50?

Code P0021 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing — Over-Retarded (Bank 2)". Translated this means that intake camshaft advance angle on the second cylinder block (passenger side) is too late relative to the optimal position. Engines Nissan Murano Z50 equipped with a system VVT (Variable Valve Timing), which adjusts valve timing to improve power and efficiency.

When the ECU (electronic control unit) detects an angle deviation of more than 5–7° from normal, it records an error P0021. The reasons can be either mechanical (wear of the phase regulator, stretching of the timing chain) or electrical (malfunction of the camshaft position sensor or VVT solenoid). In practice, the most common culprits are:

• 🛢️ Contaminated or old oil - clogs the VVT solenoid channels, preventing normal operation.
• ⚙️ Wear of the phase regulator (VVT clutch) — internal springs or gears lose their rigidity.
• 🔌 VVT solenoid malfunction — chain break or rod jamming.
• ⛓️ Timing chain stretch - leads to inaccurate camshaft positioning.

On Murano Z50 with engines VQ35DE (3.5 l) and VQ25DE (2.5 l) error P0021 often accompanied rough engine operation at idle speed, loss of power during acceleration and increased fuel consumption by 1–2 l/100 km.

Symptoms of error P0021: how does the malfunction manifest itself?

Error P0021 rarely appears “on its own” - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in the behavior of the car. Here are the key signs to look out for:

• 🚗 Unstable idle speed — the engine “troits” or the speed fluctuates in the range 500–1000 rpm.
• 💨 Dips during acceleration - especially noticeable at speeds 60–90 km/h.
• 🔥 Increased fuel consumption - on 10–15% higher than usual.
• 🔊 Knock or noise from under the valve cover - may indicate wear of the phase regulator.
• 🚨 Check Engine light comes on - sometimes accompanied by errors P0011 (bank 1) or P0340 (camshaft sensor).

On Nissan Murano Z50 with mileage over 150 thousand km error P0021 often appears after prolonged driving at high speeds or during a cold start. In some cases, the engine may go into emergency mode, limiting power to 2–3 thousand rpm.

⚠️ Attention: If together with P0021 error appears P0075 (VVT solenoid malfunction), the probability of mechanical wear of the phase regulator is 80%. In this case, replacement of the clutch is required, and not just cleaning of the solenoid.

Reasons for error P0021 on Murano Z50

To accurately determine the source of the problem, it is necessary to consider all possible causes. On Nissan Murano Z50 the most common culprits of the error P0021 distributed as follows:

Reason	Probability, %	Diagnostic method
Dirty VVT solenoid	40%	Checking resistance with a multimeter (6–8 ohms)
Wear of the phase regulator (VVT clutch)	30%	Visual inspection for play, checking the lead angle with a scanner
Stretched timing chain	15%	Measuring the tensioner, checking the timing marks
Faulty camshaft position sensor	10%	Checking the signal with an oscilloscope or replacing it with a known good one
Low oil pressure	5%	Checking the pressure with a pressure gauge, analyzing the oil for contamination

Feature Murano Z50 - sensitivity of the VVT system to oil quality. If the engine uses oil with a viscosity higher 5W-30 or with high mileage (>10 thousand km), the VVT solenoid begins to become clogged with deposits. This results in a slow clutch response and an error. P0021.

One more nuance - design weakness of Nissan phase regulators. VVT couplings on engines VQ prone to wear on internal gears and springs after 120–150 thousand km. In this case, outwardly the part may look serviceable, but during disassembly, play and chips are visible.

Diagnosing error P0021: step-by-step instructions

To accurately determine the cause of the error P0021 on Nissan Murano Z50 will be required OBD-II scanner (For example, Launch CReader or ELM327), a multimeter and a basic set of tools. Follow this algorithm:

1. Count all the mistakes scanner. If except P0021 There is P0011 (bank 1) or P0340, the problem is most likely in the sensor or circuit.
2. Check VVT solenoid resistance (bank 2). Normal value - 6–8 ohms. If resistance tends to 0 or ∞, the solenoid is faulty.
3. Measure the voltage at the solenoid connector with the ignition on. Must be 12 V. No voltage indicates a wiring break.
4. Check the phase regulator:
   • Remove the valve cover.
   • Turn the camshaft to TDC (top dead center) position.
   • Check the VVT clutch play - if it exceeds 1–2 mm, replacement is required.

Assess the condition of the timing chain. Stretching more than 5–7 mm (with tension) - a reason for replacement.

If you have no experience working with timing belts, do not try to disassemble the phase regulator yourself - incorrect installation of marks can lead to a collision of pistons with valves.

How to resolve error P0021: from simple to complex

The method of repair depends on the identified cause. Let's start with the simplest and cheapest solutions:

1. Changing the oil and flushing the VVT solenoid

If the oil has not been changed in more than 10 thousand km or a low-quality liquid is used, start with this:

• Drain the old oil and replace the filter.
• Fill with new oil 5W-30 (For example, Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30).
• Remove the VVT solenoid (bank 2) and wash it in carburetor cleaner.
• Reset the error with a scanner and check if it appears again.

2. Replacement of VVT solenoid

If flushing does not help or the solenoid resistance is not normal (6–8 ohms), needs to be replaced. For Murano Z50 fit original parts:

• 23731-AL50A — VVT solenoid (bank 2).
• 23731-3M51A - analogue for engines VQ35DE.

The cost of the original is approx. 3–5 thousand rubles., analogues (for example, Ajusa) — 1.5–2 thousand rubles..

3. Replacing the phase regulator (VVT clutch)

If play or chips are found during inspection, the VVT coupling must be replaced. For Nissan Murano Z50 fit:

• 13070-4M500 - original coupling for VQ35DE.
• 13070-AL50A - for VQ25DE.

Difficulty of replacement - high, since it requires removing the valve cover and accurately setting the timing marks. We recommend entrusting this work to professionals.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the phase regulator, be sure to check the condition of the timing chain. If it is stretched, it also needs to be replaced, otherwise the new VVT clutch will quickly fail.

4. Replacing the timing chain

If the chain is stretched more than 5–7 mm, its replacement cannot be delayed. Timing kit for Murano Z50 includes:

• Chain (13028-4M500).
• Tensioner (13085-4M500).
• Sedatives (13088-4M500).

The cost of the set is from 8 to 15 thousand rubles. depending on the manufacturer.

Cost of repairs in service vs. do-it-yourself repair

Prices for fixing errors P0021 services vary depending on the region and complexity of the work. Below is the estimated cost for Nissan Murano Z50:

Type of work	Cost of spare parts, rub.	Cost of work, rub.	Total, rub.
VVT solenoid replacement	3 000–5 000	1 500–2 500	4 500–7 500
Replacing the phase regulator	6 000–10 000	5 000–8 000	11 000–18 000
Timing chain replacement (kit)	8 000–15 000	10 000–15 000	18 000–30 000
Complex repair (solenoid + clutch + chain)	17 000–30 000	15 000–20 000	32 000–50 000

Self-repair is possible if you have experience working with timing belts. However, to replace the circuit or phase regulator you will need special tools (camshaft clamps, VVT clutch remover) and precise placement of marks. An installation error can lead to engine damage.

If you decide to renovate Murano Z50 yourself, be sure to photograph the position of all marks before disassembling and use original spare parts or high-quality analogues (for example, Febi, Ajusa).

What happens if you ignore error P0021?

Driving for a long time with a faulty VVT system leads to:

• Accelerated wear of the timing chain and its breakage (risk of valves meeting the pistons).
• Damage to the catalyst due to improper fuel combustion.
• Increased oil consumption (up to 1 l/1000 km) due to a violation of the tightness of the cylinders.
• Turbine breakdown (on models with VQ35DE), since incorrect valve timing creates excess pressure in the system.

Repair in this case will cost 100–200 thousand rubles. and more.

Prevention of error P0021 on Nissan Murano Z50

To avoid the error reappearing P0021, follow these guidelines:

• 🛢️ Change the oil every 7–8 thousand kmusing only 5W-30 with permission Nissan.
• ⚙️ Check the timing chain tensile every 100 thousand km.
• 🔧 Clean VVT Solenoid at every oil change (especially if you drive in city mode).
• 🚗 Avoid idling the engine for long periods of time - this accelerates the formation of deposits.
• 📅 Diagnose errors with a scanner at the first sign of unstable engine operation.

If your Murano Z50 already passed 150 thousand km, consider the possibility preventive replacement of phase regulators and timing chains. This will avoid costly repairs in the future.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P0021

Is it possible to drive with error code P0021?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Driving for a long time with this error leads to accelerated wear of the timing belt, increased fuel consumption and the risk of damage to the catalyst. If the error appears for the first time, check the oil and VVT solenoid. If the problem recurs, repair is required.

How much does it cost to diagnose P0021 in the service?

Cost of diagnostics in official services Nissan - from 1,500 to 3,000 rub. In independent car services the price is lower: 800–1,500 rub.. However, to accurately determine the cause, it may be necessary to disassemble the valve cover, which will increase the cost by up to 3–5 thousand rubles.

What is the best oil to use for Murano Z50 to avoid P0021?

Oil recommended 5W-30 with permission Nissan:

• Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30 (original).
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (for turbocharged engines).
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 (universal).

Avoid oils with viscosity 10W-40 and higher - they impair the performance of the VVT solenoid.

Is it possible to reset error code P0021 without repair?

Technically yes, but this is a temporary solution. If the cause is not eliminated, the error will return after 50–200 km. Resetting the error only makes sense after a repair (such as replacing a solenoid) or as a diagnostic step to check for the code to reappear.

What should I do if, after replacing the phase regulator, error P0021 remains?

Probable reasons:

• Incorrect installation of timing marks.
• Faulty VVT solenoid (even if it is new, it may be defective).
• Stretched timing chain (needs replacement).
• Problems with wiring or ECU.

Repeat the diagnostics, paying special attention to checking the circuit and voltage at the solenoid.